|
Back to Campus Currents
BHSU
is one of two state universities to offer new education paraprofessional degree
- Top
Beginning this fall, BHSU will be one of two
state universities to offer a new associate degree in paraprofessional
education. The South Dakota Board of Regents recently approved the new associate
degree for BHSU and Northern State University to help South Dakota’s teacher
aides comply with federal educational requirements.
The 64-credit associate of science degree in
paraprofessional education can be completed in two years. The degree focuses on general
education and more specific courses needed by classroom paraprofessionals.
“This new degree offers a sound grounding in the liberal arts, along with
specialized coursework essential for those assisting in K-12 classrooms,” said
Regents' President Harvey C. Jewett.
Curriculum includes 21 credit hours in general education-required courses in
the areas of mathematics, science, composition, psychology, speech, and computer
technology. Other courses prepare the paraprofessional in educational
psychology, teaching strategies, mathematics, children’s literature, classroom
instructional management, and special education. An additional 18-19 elective
credits complete the degree requirements.
When Congress reauthorized federal education law late last year, it required
paraprofessionals who assist teachers in classrooms supported by federal Title I
dollars to complete at least two years of postsecondary study, obtain an
associate’s degree, or demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to assist with
instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics. These federal requirements
apply to any new aides hired for the 2002-03 school term, and will apply to all
eligible paraprofessionals by the end of the 2005-06 term. There are an
estimated 1,700 K-12 education paraprofessionals employed in South Dakota.
There is still time to register for fall classes at BHSU. Classes begin Sept.
4. Students who have not pre-registered for classes may do so Sept. 3 from 8
a.m. to noon at the David B. Miller Yellow Jacket Student Union.
Most of the courses are also available through distance delivery, including
the state’s Digital Dakota Network, Internet, or correspondence. To view and
register for current undergraduate distance education courses offered through
the Regents’ Electronic University Consortium of South Dakota see <http://www.hpcnet.org/euc/paraprofessionals>.
Degree
Details
Summary
of the Paraprofessional Associate Degree
(These courses are
available at BHSU (check with Extended Services: 605-642-6771) as well as
through the EUC by distance, Internet, or correspondence and would apply as
general education requirements for four-year baccalaureate degree programs.
(Go to www.hpcnet.org/euc to
checkout Internet courses)
ENGL 101, Composition
I
3 credits
ENGL 201, Composition II
3 credits
MATH 101 or 102, Intermediate or College Algebra
3 credits
MIS or CIS 105, Introduction to Computers
3 credits
Natural Science: BIOL 101/102, CHEM 106/107,
Or PHYS 101/102
3 credits
SPCM 101, Fundamentals of Speech
3 credits
PSYC 101/101A, General Psychology
3 credits
21 credits
Paraprofessional
Education Courses
(These courses would
be provided by Black Hills State University and Northern State University by DDN,
Internet, or at a site through continuing education on a two-year rotating
schedule.)
EDFN 200, Classroom
Instructional Management/
Field Experience
3 credits
EDFN 210, Issues and Strategies in Teaching Reading
2 credits
EDFN 475, Human Relations
3 credits
EPSY 302, Educational Psychology
3 credits
EPSY 327, Child/Adolescent Development 3 credits
LIBM 205, Children’s Literature
2 credits
MATH 341, Math Concepts for Teachers I
3 credits
SPED 300, Students with Exceptionalities
3 credits
21-22
credits
|
